A federal pilot program that's been running in 14 states may be expanded across the country when the nation sets its agricultural policy for the next five years. The program makes fruits and vegetables more readily available in school lunch programs and is being heavily lobbied for by the United Fresh Produce Association.
"'Kids eat way less than half of the total fruit and vegetables they need to eat for good health,' said Lorelai DiSogra, a nutritionist at United Fresh Produce Association, which represents fruit and vegetable growers. 'If you can make fresh fruits and vegetables available, kids are going to eat it.'"
A program expansion would make as much as $225 million available, making it easier to expand the program beyond its current pilot stage.
Labels: healthy_eating, nutrition, schools